Hydrofluoric Acid Market Sees Increased Investment from Private Sector

INTRODUCTION

The global hydrofluoric acid market is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, with its market size expected to increase from USD 3.6 billion in 2023 to approximately USD 6.3 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9%. This growth is primarily driven by the rising demand for hydrofluoric acid in various industrial applications, particularly in the production of fluorocarbons, fluoropolymers, and aluminum fluoride. The expansion of the electronics industry, which uses hydrofluoric acid for cleaning silicon wafers and other semiconductor materials, also contributes significantly to market growth. Additionally, its use in petroleum refining processes and as a catalyst in alkylation units further boosts demand.

However, the market faces several challenges. The highly toxic and corrosive nature of hydrofluoric acid necessitates stringent handling and safety measures, which increase operational costs. Fluctuating raw material prices and stringent regulations, particularly those aimed at reducing the environmental impact of fluorocarbons, pose additional hurdles. Despite these challenges, recent developments indicate a positive trend, such as advancements in safer handling techniques and the development of environmentally friendly alternatives. Companies are also investing in research and development to improve the efficiency and safety of hydrofluoric acid applications, which is expected to create new opportunities in the market.

Daikin Industries is actively involved in the hydrofluoric acid sector, primarily focusing on its use in semiconductor manufacturing. Daikin has developed innovative processes to produce hydrofluoric acid from fluorite minerals sourced from Mexico, aiming to reduce reliance on Chinese imports. This strategic move is intended to diversify supply chains and ensure a stable supply of hydrofluoric acid, crucial for semiconductor etching processes. By overcoming challenges related to impurities in Mexican fluorite, Daikin is positioned to enhance its competitiveness in the global market.

Sinochem Group’s fluorine chemical business has covered a complete industry value chain encompassing resource tapping (fluorspar and AHF), R&D, production, and marketing. Our subsidiary Sinochem Lantian Co., Ltd. is a leading enterprise in R&D and production of fluorine chemicals in the Chinese market. Our fluorspar reserve is the largest in China and second in the world. We are the fifth largest fluorine carbon producer globally with nearly ten products claiming top market share both at home and abroad.

“JIN COOL” branded refrigerants penetrate 80% of the Chinese vehicle market. “Kehua” branded trifluoroacetic acid enjoys leading market positions in China. The company is mainly engaged in the research and development and production of new environmentally friendly refrigerants, fluorine-containing polymer materials, organic silicon materials, chlor-alkali ion membranes, and hydrogen fuel proton exchange membranes. It has mastered a large number of world-leading technologies and its products are sold in more than 160 countries and regions.

The group’s fluorine-silicon membrane hydrogen industry chain has a total of 12 high-tech industrial chains, and its products include 5 categories, 16 series, and 1,170 varieties, which are widely used in key and important areas of the national economy and people’s livelihood such as new energy, new infrastructure, life sciences, and digital technology, becoming the most powerful support for the realization of the “dual carbon” goal.

Solvay is a significant entity in the hydrofluoric acid market, known for its comprehensive production capabilities and commitment to sustainability. The company supplies high-purity hydrofluoric acid used in diverse industries, including chemical synthesis and electronics. Solvay’s emphasis on environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology helps it maintain a competitive edge in the global market.

STATISTICS

• Physicochemical Information- Density 1.16 g/cm3 (20 °C), pH value 2 (H₂O, 20 °C)
• Storage and Shipping Information- Storage Store at +2°C to +30°C. Hydrogen fluoride does not boil until 20 °C in contrast to the heavier hydrogen halides, which boil between −85 °C (−120 °F) and −35 °C (−30 °F). In an aqueous solution, HF is a weak acid, with a pKa of 3.17, again in contrast with the other hydrogen halides, which are all completely ionized in solution.
• HF lasers emit IR light in the 2.7–2.9 µm wavelength range; if the hydrogen is replaced by deuterium, the wavelength increases to ≈3.8 µm.
• Hydrofluoric acid releases in 17 states and the acute health effects associated, 1993-2001
• HF acid events were 2 times more likely to involve injuries when compared with other acid events and 3 times more likely when compared with nonacid events.
• As much as 60 percent of hydrogen fluoride in industrial settings is used to make refrigerants. It is used in manufacturing silicon semiconductor chips and as a catalyst in oil, and refineries to make high-octane gasoline as well as to power nuclear reactors.
• Hydrofluoric acid is a corrosive chemical whose formula is HF. It is volatile, colorless, and has an acrid odor. Anhydrous, is gaseous at ambient temperatures and may be dissolved in water up to a concentration of 75%. In an aqueous solution.
• Diluted solutions of hydrofluoric acid are also classified as hazardous when concentrations are higher than 0.1%. Solutions of hydrofluoric acids corrode most metals and release dihydrogen, a gas that is flammable and explosive.
• Everyone working with HF must read the appropriate SDS (or MSDS). Read the appropriate SDS from one of the following: Hydrogen Fluoride (100%), and Hydrofluoric Acid (70%).
• A total of 201 patients (189 males, 12 females; average age: 38.33 ± 10.57 years) were admitted due to HF burns. Over the 10 years, the morbidity of HF burns in the past 10 years showed a gradual increase, which paralleled the development of local fluoride industries.
• Approximately 17% of patients underwent surgical operations.
• Exposure through inhalation would not be a risk unless spraying HF or handling concentrated fuming HF greater than or equal to 40%.

EMERGING TRENDS

Technological Innovations: There is a growing focus on developing advanced technologies to improve the efficiency and environmental impact of hydrofluoric acid production. For instance, new methods are being introduced to enhance the purity of the acid and reduce by-products, which can help meet stricter industry regulations.

Increased Usage in Electronics: The electronics sector is driving demand for high-purity hydrofluoric acid, especially for use in semiconductor manufacturing. As electronic devices become more advanced, the need for ultra-pure hydrofluoric acid is increasing to support cutting-edge technology.

Focus on Sustainability: Companies are investing in sustainable practices to reduce the environmental footprint of hydrofluoric acid production. This includes efforts to minimize emissions and improve waste management practices. For example, initiatives are underway to capture and recycle fluorine from waste streams.

Expansion in Emerging Markets: The hydrofluoric acid market is expanding in emerging economies, particularly in Asia-Pacific regions such as China and India. This growth is driven by rising industrial activities and increasing demand from various sectors, including automotive and pharmaceuticals.

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USE CASES

Semiconductor Manufacturing: Hydrofluoric acid is crucial in the electronics industry, where it is used for etching silicon wafers and cleaning semiconductor surfaces. This sector accounts for about 30% of global hydrofluoric acid demand, driven by the growth of technology and electronics.

Fluorinated Chemicals Production: HF is a key raw material in the production of fluorinated chemicals, such as refrigerants and fluoropolymers. These chemicals are used in air conditioning systems, non-stick coatings, and pharmaceuticals. The fluorochemicals segment represents approximately 40% of the hydrofluoric acid market.

Glass Etching and Cleaning: Hydrofluoric acid is used to etch and clean glass surfaces, including those used in optical lenses and laboratory glassware. This application makes up about 15% of the hydrofluoric acid market. Its ability to dissolve silica makes it invaluable for this purpose.

Metal Processing: HF is employed in the metal processing industry for removing metal oxides and impurities during the production of aluminum and steel. This application accounts for about 10% of the global hydrofluoric acid consumption.

KEY PLAYER ANALYSIS

DAIKIN: DAIKIN provides etching agents for wet and dry fluorine types for semiconductor manufacturing. For wet etching agents, we provide high quality products in which impurities such as metal ions, etc., are minimized. We also handle grades with improved permeability and reduced particle adhesion onto wafers by adding a unique surfactant.

SINOCHEM: Sinochem Group’s fluorine chemical business has covered a complete industry value chain encompassing resource tapping (fluorspar and AHF), R&D, production, and marketing. Our subsidiary Sinochem Lantian Co., Ltd. is a leading enterprise in R&D and production of fluorine chemicals in the Chinese market. Our fluorspar reserve is the largest in China and second in the world. We are the fifth largest fluorine carbon producer globally with nearly ten products claiming top market share both at home and abroad. “JIN COOL” branded refrigerants penetrate 80% of the Chinese vehicle market. “Kehua” branded trifluoroacetic acid enjoys leading market positions in China.

DONGYUE GROUP: Dongyue Fluorosilicon Technology Group Co., Ltd. (Dongyue Group) was founded in 1987 and is located in Dongyue Economic Development Zone, Zibo. The company insists on technological innovation and focuses on new energy, new environmental protection, and new materials industries. After 37 years of hard work, it has gradually grown into a leading enterprise in China’s fluorine and silicon industry and has built a world-class fluorine and silicon material industrial park and a complete fluorine, silicon, membrane and hydrogen industry chain and industrial cluster.

KOURA GLOBAL: Koura is the global leader in the fluoroproducts that play a fundamental role in enhancing everyday lives, in a vast range of applications, including construction, batteries, polymers, refrigerants, medical devices, and active pharmaceutical ingredients, among others. provide solutions for a variety of markets through a wide range of product applications; metspar, acidspar, hydrofluoric acid, anhydrite, aluminum trifluoride, refrigerants, medical propellants, energy storage, and technical propellants. Our products are suitable for a range of applications in a variety of sectors; including medical treatment, commercial refrigeration, automotive, construction, and utilities.

LANXESS: With around 12,600 employees in 32 countries, we are an established company on the global market. The core business is the development, manufacturing, and marketing of chemical intermediates, additives, and consumer protection products with annual sales of EUR 6.7 billion (2023).

Yingpeng CHEMICAL: Yingpeng Chemical is a prominent player in the hydrofluoric acid (HF) market, focusing on the production and supply of high-purity HF. The company emphasizes stringent quality control and advanced production techniques to cater to various industrial applications, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing. Yingpeng Chemical’s dedication to innovation and sustainability has positioned it as a key supplier in both domestic and international markets​

STELLA CHEMICAL CORP: Stella Chemical Corp. is a leading producer of ultra-high-purity hydrofluoric acid, essential for semiconductor manufacturing processes such as silicon wafer cleaning and etching. The company boasts a top-level market share in Japan and globally. Fluorine can generate a variety of amazing characteristics, by linking to other elements. By continuing to pursue the possibilities of fluorine, we have produced a unique “Only One Technology” and we are now a leading company in the field of fluorine compounds.

Honeywell International Inc: Honeywell ensures a secure and seamless supply chain from extraction to market. Depend on Honeywell to deliver a quality Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) product. As the world’s largest producer and consumer of HF and the leader in safe and reliable HF transportation, committed to delivering a consistent product to support your operations. As a trusted Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) source for over 50 years, continue to invest in technology that advances the safety and reliability of our HF acid. challenge is to provide the safest working environment – protecting employees, the environment, and equipment – while simultaneously enabling to improve throughput and productivity.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the hydrofluoric acid market is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand from the electronics, chemical, and industrial sectors. Innovations in production technology and a strong focus on sustainability are enhancing the efficiency and environmental footprint of hydrofluoric acid manufacturing. Key players like Honeywell International Inc. and Stella Chemifa Corp. are leading advancements in high-purity hydrofluoric acid, critical for applications such as semiconductor manufacturing and fluorinated chemical production. As industries continue to evolve, the role of hydrofluoric acid remains indispensable, underscoring its importance in modern industrial processes.

Sources

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